Edward's Overlook Trail
Ranking: Difficult
Again I find myself in the great state of Tennessee. I swear I visit this state more than any other state in the US. From the scenic highways in the valleys to the treetops on the mountains, Chattanooga has it all!
So this trail that I am talking about today is one of my all time favorites- hands down. Located in Chattanooga, TN, the Edward's Overlook trail is a great find. Although this hike is a tough one, it is well worth the trek out. I mentioned it in my previous post (on the Rainbow Lake trail) but the views at the end of this hike are breathtaking! Like literally, you will be dying by the time you make it to the top. To give you an idea, at times my knees were almost touching my chest while ascending.
Let's get into it. Upon arrival this trail is part of a trail system. What I mean is you have to hike one trail to get to the next one and so on. To get to Edward's Overlook, I recommend you park in the Rainbow Lake trail lot and hike in from there. Along the way are signs to get to Cumberland and Edward's trails, so just read and hike as you want. Once you get to the point of the waterfall of the Rainbow lake trail you are at the start of Edward's Overlook. You really begin hiking once you cross the suspension bridge and up you go. From there take your time and enjoy the stair workout.
After what feels like forever, you will come to a huge bend in the trail. Once you get here you are getting so close to the finish line! Don't give up when you get to this point. On our first hike there we didn't realize we still had a good bit to hike since we saw several vantage points. Trust me though, once you get there you will know.
At the end of your journey you will come face to face with one of the most incredible views I have ever seen. Edward's Overlook point looks over the Tennessee River Gorge below. If you made it that far, I would recommend you chill and enjoy the views.
All in all this trail is incredible and one of my favs in this area of Tennessee. I cannot recommend it enough to those of you interested in breaking a good sweat. If you are planning on bringing your dog or kids I would say to stop at the Rainbow Lake spot. Here there are wading pools and it is an easier hike. As soon as you go over the bridge, it becomes pretty difficult which might be a challenge for dogs and kids.
If you are ever in the area, you should check out this whole area in Chattanooga, TN.